Black Thursday brings violence into the spotlight
Throughout November, visitors can explore a free exhibition at Seinäjoki Central Library
Thursdays in Black is an international campaign by the World Council of Churches against sexual and gender-based violence. A free exhibition on the subject is on display at Seinäjoki Central Library throughout November.
“Violence against women has recently become a prominent topic in public debate in Finland. The statistics are bleak. According to the data, more than half of women in Finland have experienced physical or sexual violence, or threats of such violence, during their lifetime,” says Pia Ketola, Mission Secretary at Seinäjoki Parish.
The exhibition, supported by Finn Church Aid, shines a spotlight on violence against women. Sanna Ålander, a priest who takes part in the parish’s discussion group, wants to remind people that men also experience violence.
“In families or relationships where violence occurs, there is often a wish or hope that things can still change for the better and that the violence will come to an end. It is extremely important that we have the courage to talk about these issues and seek help. Help is also available through the parish. For example, you can raise the matter with a member of staff at your local parish,” Ålander says.
Seek help
A particularly dangerous time in an abusive relationship can be when one partner expresses a wish to end the relationship. Even when they are away from home, many women find themselves having to think carefully about their safety because they fear violence.
“Many women go out every evening wondering: ‘Do I have a safe route home from here? Do I have my phone with me? Is the taxi I’m about to get into safe?’” says Ketola.
Riikka Uuksulainen of the Family Counselling Centre points out that violence can take many forms.
“It can be psychological, physical, sexual or financial, for example. Subjugation, restricting another person’s freedom and manipulation are also forms of violence. If you feel unsafe with your partner, feel unable to say no or feel that you have no say in your own affairs, there may be abuse in your relationship.
“You can seek help from social and healthcare services, a women’s refuge or the police. You can also get help and support from the Church’s family counselling service.
“Violence often escalates, becomes more brutal and takes on new forms if left unchecked. To break the cycle, it is crucial to seek outside help,” Uuksulainen emphasises.
PICTURE: Matti Hautalahti
TEXT: Jaakko Jokela
Thursdays in Black exhibition in the upper hall of Seinäjoki Main Library, Apila
You can take part in the campaign by wearing black on Thursdays, taking a photo and sharing it with the hashtags #ThursdaysinBlack and @kirkon_ulkomaanapu
